Anyone who knows me knows that I am OBSESSED with the city of Pittsburgh. The obsession has always been in blood. As a kid I’d take field trips to the Carnegie Science Center and spend summer days with my family at Kennywood. Last summer when I had the chance to work Downtown, the obsession shifted more into a goal: I WILL move here after graduation.
Four months after graduation and I’ve officially called myself a Pittsburgh dweller for two weeks. I’m still a little bit pleasantly surprised that I managed to get a job and apartment, just like my plan. And now I call this beautiful city home. So, I thought it would only be appropriate to blog about all of the things I LOVE about the Burgh. Like all good relationships, we have our disputes. For instance, I don’t understand why not one person in this city knows how to use a turn signal. But here are some of the reasons I love to call the steel city mine:
1. The skyline.
Ok, but seriously… have you SEEN that view? I’ve been to Seattle, New York, Chicago, etc. and I’ve never seen a skyline that takes away my breath like Pittsburgh. There isn’t a single view of Pittsburgh that does not get my heart racing. I normally come through the Squirrel Hill Tunnel, and that second RIGHT before I spot the city is still one of the best feelings.
2. Ice or Grass, We’ll Kick Your…
We like our sports in Pittsburgh. And by like, I mean we live and breathe them. Sidney Crosby and Troy Polamalu have practically reached sainthood in the Burgh and championship games are treated like national holidays (as they SHOULD be.) We brag about our Super Bowl rings and the number of times we’ve brought home the Stanley Cup. I hear a lot of flack about Pittsburgh sport fans (I’m looking at you, Philly) but, hey, who doesn’t love winning?! And yes, we have a less than spectacular baseball team. But one day, it will happen for them, and Pittsburgh will be behind them. As for me, I’m proud to live in a city where you can bond with a stranger over a beer and a story from Game 7.
3. Pop? Gum band? Nebby?
Ah, Pittsburghese. I’m fluent, and proud of it. I never though Western Pennsylvania had an accent and then I find out we practically have our own LANGUAGE! It’s quirky and sassy, and I LOVE it. Calling people jagoffs is my new favorite hobby. And for me, it will always be pop <3
This is a SHORT, SHORT list of the reasons I am so in love with the Burgh. I’m sure more will come once I have some sleep and coffee in me. But for now, I’m just proud to call Pittsburgh home… and I wanted you to know.